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Charisms for Catholics

Jill Simons

How effective would a company be where only about 5% of people knew their job description? Not very. And yet this is what we see in the Church right now - many people know they are a part of the Body of Christ but very few have a clear sense of what role they play - if they even realize they play a role at all. Charisms for Catholics helps you identify, value, and invest in where the Holy Spirit is moving in your life and to partner with Him to build the Church by embracing your specific role in the Body of Christ. Produced by Many Parts Ministries.

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S3 · E189
Thursday · 23 min
Ep 198 - Opt Out October Week 2 — Emotional Clutter with Rachel Bulman
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons welcomes special guest Rachel Bulman as part of the Opt Out October series, focusing on the theme of emotional clutter. Together, they explore how emotional clutter accumulates in our lives, its impact on our ability to fully live out our charisms, and the importance of integrating our emotional and spiritual lives. Drawing from theology, philosophy, and personal experience, Rachel offers practical insights for recognizing and addressing emotional clutter, understanding the body-soul connection emphasized in Theology of the Body, and discerning healthy boundaries in our callings. Tune in for an outpouring of encouragement to approach your emotional life with honesty and self-awareness, seeking freedom and integration as a beloved child of God! 00:26 — Introduction to Opt Out October and Emotional Clutter 01:20 — Rachel Bulman Shares Her Background 02:21 — Connection Between Emotional State and Environment 04:02 — Theology of the Body and Emotional Integration 07:37 — Where Do Emotions Fit in Catholic Theology? 14:19 — Practical Discernment: Knowing Emotional Limits 18:20 — Getting Started: Journaling and Practical Self-Awareness Download the free "Opt Out October" guide at https://manypartsministries.com and watch the full video at Many Parts Ministries Youtube
S3 · E197
October 1 · 32 min
Ep 197 - Opt Out October Week 1 — Physical Clutter with Sterling Jaquith
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons kicks off Opt Out October with special guest Sterling Jaquith, author of "Not of This World: A Catholic Guide to Minimalism." Together, they dive into the relationship between physical clutter and inner peace, discussing how creating order in our homes can open more space for the Holy Spirit and a deeper embrace of our charisms. Sterling shares insights from her personal journey—growing up around hoarding, raising a large family, and developing practical systems for decluttering. The conversation offers actionable tips, spiritual encouragement, and real-talk about letting go, setting boundaries, and building a home that reflects faith-driven priorities. Whether you're overwhelmed by physical things or just curious about Catholic minimalism, this episode will inspire you to clear space—inside and out—for God's work in your life! 00:27 — Launching Opt Out October: A Month-Long Journey 01:39 — Introducing Sterling Jaquith: Decluttering for Internal Peace 03:40 — Facing Family Hoarding and the Minimalism Challenge 06:05 — Charisms and Clutter: Beyond "Does it Spark Joy?" 09:31 — The Real Cause of Clutter Stress: What's Stealing Your Peace? 13:34 — Letting Go of Aspirational Clutter and Woundedness 23:38 — Getting Started: Small Chunks, Lasting Results Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E196
September 24 · 18 min
Ep 196 - What good things are making it hard to say yes to your charisms?
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons explores how even "good things" in life—such as commitments, relationships, and daily clutter—can unintentionally crowd out the space needed to say yes to our spiritual gifts, or charisms. While sharing personal reflections and practical insights on making intentional space for God's work, especially as we look ahead to seasons like Advent, Jill introduces "Opt Out October," a focused initiative to declutter physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual areas of life, so we can better align with our unique gifts. Whether you're overwhelmed by your schedule or seeking deeper fulfillment, everyone is invited to examine what might be hindering their ability to serve and live from their charisms. 00:28 – Crowding Out Charisms with Other Good Things 01:30 – Charisms as a Penciled-in Footnote 03:25 – Making Space for Advent and Christ 04:46 – Five-Week Series Preview: Addressing Clutter and Saying Your Best Yes 06:35 – The Power of Self-Pruning: Choosing Your Yes 09:38 – Reorienting in Challenging Relationships 12:21 – Opt Out October Tiers: Dip In, Dive In, and All In Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E195
September 22 · 3 min
Ep 195.5 - Join Us for Opt Out October this Year!
In this mini episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill announces the beginning of this year's Opt Out October, an annual event designed to help Catholics declutter their lives and make more space to say yes to what God is calling us to, especially in relation to our charisms! Jill explains the availability of the challenge at a free level, as well as new options for deeper support, such as guided resources, weekly videos, daily actionable steps, charism assessments, and opportunities for live group interaction and accountability. This episode highlights the importance of creating room for discernment and growth, while Jill encourages listeners to join the community in this transformative journey, as a supportive environment is intended to bring greater clarity, peace, and openness to the movements of the Holy Spirit in participants' lives! 00:14 — Launching Opt Out October: An Annual Tradition 00:26 — Creating Space to Say Yes to God and Charisms 01:01 — Introducing New Support Levels for the Challenge 01:14 — What's Included in Opt Out Guided 01:50 — Features of the Opt Out Together Package 02:21 — Opportunities for Direct Support, Training, and Accountability 03:19 — Helping You Discern Charisms and Find Peace Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com
S3 · E195
September 17 · 29 min
Ep 195 - What's Really at Stake When You Discern Your Charisms?
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill reflects on "The Stakes of Charism Discernment," exploring why discerning your spiritual gifts matters not only for your own well-being but, even more urgently, for the good of others in the Body of Christ! Through compelling analogies and personal stories, she highlights how understanding and using our charisms can provide healing, encouragement, and transformation far beyond what we might realize, impacting families, parishes, and entire communities. Jill challenges listeners in this episode to see charism discernment as an essential, outward-facing part of Christian life, and urges everyone to share this awareness within their circles so that the unique gifts God has given each of us can fully bear fruit in the Church and the world! 00:44 – The Stakes of Charism Discernment 01:54 – The Gunshot Wound and Eczema Analogy 04:06 – How Charism Discernment Addresses Hidden Frustrations 06:01 – The Ripple Effect of Your Charisms on Others 10:53 – A Prophetic Word and Its Unexpected Impact 14:30 – Charisms in Action: Everyday Miracles 19:02 – Why We Need Each Other's Charisms Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E191
September 10 · 19 min
Ep 194 - Three Off The Wall Ways To Grow In Intimacy With God
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," host Jill Simons explores three unconventional ways to deepen intimacy with God, drawn from her personal prayer and insights received in adoration. Moving beyond the specifics of charisms, Jill focuses on cultivating greater receptivity to the Holy Spirit and nurturing a childlike relationship with God. She unpacks how embracing vulnerability, persistence, and authenticity in our spiritual lives can transform our awareness of God's presence and our ability to recognize opportunities to use our spiritual gifts. Whether you struggle with feeling like a "bother" in prayer, sanitizing your emotions before God, or fearing disappointment by asking for big things, this episode offers practical, off-the-wall inspiration for growing in trust and deepening your connection with the Father! 01:00 - Levels of Invitation to Use Your Charisms 01:39 - High Attunement and Whisper Nudges from God 04:42 - Embracing Our Role as Children of God 06:09 - What Childlike Trust Looks Like Spiritually 07:05 - Don't Worry About Being Annoying 10:10 - Lesson 2: Feel All Your Feelings with God 14:47 - Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Big Things Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E193
September 3 · 14 min
Ep 193 - Is Identity Usually Linear?
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," Jill Simons explores the question, "Is identity always linear?" Drawing on insightful analogies between identity formation and physical fitness, Jill discusses how investing in your spiritual life can help you maintain and grow your sense of identity, but also acknowledges that setbacks and non-linear progress are common. She examines how personal struggles or injustices can impact our sense of self, the ongoing need for healing, and the vital role of divine grace in our journeys. Whether you're moving steadily forward or experiencing detours, you'll find encouragement and practical wisdom for embracing and strengthening your identity in Christ! 00:57 - Comparing Identity to Physical Fitness 02:15 - Exceptions and Nonlinear Identity Journeys 03:32 - Building "Mental Hygiene" for Identity Maintenance 04:09 - The Limitlessness of Growth in Identity 05:14 - How Pain and Injustice Affect Identity 12:45 - Encouragement for Continuing Your Identity Journey Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E193
August 27 · 18 min
Ep 192 - How Coaches and Volunteers Make Our Mission a Reality
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," host Jill Simons explores the essential role that coaches and volunteers play in making charism discernment accessible within the Church! She delves into the different programs offered by Many Parts Ministries, from entry-level study groups to comprehensive volunteer and coach certifications, all designed to equip individuals to accompany others through their discernment journey. Jill also shares her personal experience in developing these resources, emphasizing the importance of local leadership and one-on-one accompaniment to help people identify their spiritual gifts. This episode also highlights how you can get involved, whether by becoming trained leaders or by advocating for charism discernment programs within their own parishes! 01:03 — Launch of "What You Carry" Study: Entry-Level Accompaniment 02:50 — Volunteer Training Programs and Small Group Accompaniment 04:16 — Jill Simons' Personal Journey: Learning and Informal Charism Accompaniment 06:44 — Impact and Role of Volunteers in Local Communities 10:04 — Volunteer Accompaniment Training Program Overview 11:13 — Spiritual Director and Coach Certification Program 14:51 — Benefits for Spiritual Directors and Coaches: Practical Application 16:14 — Grassroots Parish Engagement and Impact Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E190
August 20 · 25 min
Ep 191 - Responding to Neurodivergence in the Body of Christ with Ginny Kochis
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons is joined by Ginny Kochis, a neurodivergent parent coach and author, to discuss how the Church can better understand and welcome neurodivergent individuals! Ginny shares her personal journey as a mother navigating her children's diverse neurological needs, the gifts neurodivergent people bring to faith communities, and practical ways Catholic parishes can create more inclusive spaces. Together, they reflect on the importance of identity in Christ, overcoming judgment, and celebrating the unique contributions of all members of the Body of Christ. Ginny also introduces her book, "Quirky Catholic: Navigating Neurodivergence with Faith and Joy," which lifts up saints who displayed neurodivergent traits and offers encouragement for families seeking holiness in every circumstance! 00:18 — Introducing Ginny Kochis: Neurodivergent Parent Coach 01:26 — Navigating Unexpected Parenting Challenges 02:53 — Processing Diagnosis and Grief 04:43 — Supporting Other Moms in Catholic Spaces 07:02 — Unique Strengths of Neurodivergent Children 13:39 — Overcoming Judgment and Embracing Accommodations 23:10 — Saints as Models for Neurodivergent Catholics Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E190
August 13 · 13 min
Ep 190 - Helping Incarcerated People Discern their Charisms
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons shares the story behind the new "Where the Spirit Is" resource, specially designed for prison ministry. Born from Jill's personal experiences and long-standing passion for charisms, this initiative aims to help incarcerated men and women discover their spiritual gifts and find purpose, even within prison walls. She discusses the challenges of creating an accessible, non-digital assessment tailored for the unique circumstances of incarceration, the desire to serve all denominations, and the hope that this tool will empower both prison ministers and those they serve. This episode will encourage you to spread the word, pray for prison ministry, and join the movement to bring the freedom of the Holy Spirit to those most in need! 01:32 - Personal Struggle and the Role of Charisms 02:57 - Inspiration for Prison Ministry Resources 05:15 - Challenges Creating Charism Resources for Prisons 06:47 - Designing Accessible, Paper-Based Assessments 09:02 - Distribution and Application Process 12:46 - The Resource "Where the Spirit Is" and Closing Reflections Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E189
August 6 · 34 min
Ep 189 - Comparing Every List of Charisms We Can Find
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons dives deep into the many different lists of charisms or spiritual gifts used across Catholic ministries! Drawing on her experience at Many Parts Ministries, Jill compares and contrasts seven popular lists—including biblical sources, the Catherine of Siena Institute's Called and Gifted program, diocesan inventories, and charismatic renewal approaches—to highlight why certain gifts are included or combined, and how these choices shape our understanding of the Holy Spirit's work in the Church. Focusing on clarity and practical discernment, she encourages listeners to find the resources that serve them best, emphasizing that diversity in charism frameworks is both expected and valuable within the Body of Christ. Whether you're new to charism discernment or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode provides a thoughtful look at how different models can help you discover and live out your God-given gifts! 00:39 — Introduction to Charism Lists and Models 03:20 — Overview of Seven Popular Charism Lists 04:49 — Distinguishing Isaiah Gifts from Charisms 06:02 — Grouping of Charisms: Romans and Corinthians 10:25 — Comparison with Catherine of Siena Institute's 24 Charisms 12:13— Diocese of Cleveland's Parish-Focused Charism List 22:01— Digital Communications and Contemporary Charisms Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E188
July 30 · 18 min
Ep 188 - What to Do When You Have No Idea How to Test a Charism
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons focuses on how Catholics can discern and test charisms—spiritual gifts—especially when they aren't sure how to do so. She discuses the unique challenge of testing "lifestyle" or "ways of being" charisms such as voluntary poverty and celibacy, which may not provide obvious external confirmation. She also discuses practical, approachable strategies, including using one's calendar to identify opportunities for discernment and offering upcoming life activities to the Holy Spirit for testing. Tune in to explore the importance of giving God space to move, attentiveness to His responses, and finding support through spiritual mentors when needed! 00:56 – Introducing the Challenge: How Do You Test a Charism You Don't Know How to Test? 01:38 – Hard-to-Test Charisms: Wisdom, Knowledge, Voluntary Poverty & Celibacy 03:15 – Fruits of Detachment: How Lifestyle Charisms Amplify Others 05:17 – Universal Guideline: Use Your Calendar for Discernment 06:45 – Trusting the Holy Spirit: Offering Upcoming Days for Testing 10:00 – The Key to Discernment: Pay Attention When Testing 13:03 – Real-Life Example: Discovering the Charism of Knowledge Over Lunch Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E190
July 23 · 15 min
Ep 187 - The Five Questions: What scope is God giving me for my mission?
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," we delve into discerning the specific scope that God is inviting each person to embrace in their mission. We discuss the importance of finding both confidence and peace in understanding the unique area of influence entrusted by God, whether it be within a family, small group, parish, or even a broader platform. Tune in to explore the significance of naming and valuing one's current mission, the spiritual fruit of peace that flows from this clarity, and the variety of tools and resources available to assist us in this journey of discernment! 01:01 - The Fifth Essential Question—What Scope is God Giving You for Your Mission? 01:48 - Embracing Peace by Accepting Your God-Given Responsibilities 02:29 - Ground Rule—Bigger Scope Doesn't Mean More Importance 03:23 - The Holy Spirit's Desire to Move at Every Level of Influence 04:39 - Recognizing That Scope Is Not Static and May Change with Seasons 06:16 - The Value and Spiritual Significance of Small Scopes 11:56 - Peace and Joy Found in Accepting the Unique Scope of Your Mission Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E185
July 16 · 12 min
Ep 186 - The Five Questions: What is my Season in life?
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," we focus on discerning one's current season in life as a key aspect of understanding how to live out one's calling and utilize spiritual gifts or charisms. One concept discussed is how different stages—such as childhood, young adulthood, marriage, religious life, or parenthood—shape both God's invitations and the opportunities available for ministry and service. We explore the importance of recognizing the practical realities of one's season and aligning expectations and commitments accordingly, rather than comparing oneself to the perceptions or opinions of others. Tune in to delve into personal discernment, self-awareness, and vocation-centered decision-making help clarify where the Holy Spirit is drawing each individual within their present circumstances! 00:46 — Introducing the Five Questions and Mission Clarity 01:41 — Seasons of Life and the Vocational Journey 02:55 — Varieties of Vocational Seasons: Marriage, Infertility, and Religious Life 03:35 — God's Call is Grounded in Reality 05:03 — Discerning Commitments According to Your Current Season 07:15 — Personal Story: Ministry, Motherhood, and Internal Discernment 10:23 — Prioritizing Vocation While Discerning Charisms and Commitments Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E185
July 9 · 17 min
Ep 185 - The Five Questions: What is my Passion?
In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," Jill centers the conversation on the question, "What is my passion?" One concept discussed is how passion, particularly when aligned with individual charisms, helps clarify where and how a person is called to serve within the Church. We also explore our uniqueness, how individuals with similar charisms can express them through vastly different passions and missions and the importance of reflecting on passion alongside identity and charisms to achieve greater mission clarity. This episode highlights key questions that help us discern further and find mission clarity through charisms! 00:51 – Introducing the Question: What Is My Passion? 01:53 – Secular Perspectives on Passion Versus Skill 02:25 – The Unique Expression of Charisms and Passion 03:35 – Mercy, Passion, and Specific Communities 07:07 – Discerning Passion Within Each Charism 10:13 – Moving From Charism Discovery to Practical Engagement 15:07 – Mission Clarity and Brainstorming Passions Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E184
July 2 · 10 min
Ep 184: The Five Questions: What are my Charisms?
This episode of "Charisms for Catholics," focuses on the essential question, "What are my charisms?" as part of a series exploring five foundational questions for Catholics discerning their spiritual gifts. Host Jill Simons delves into the importance of understanding the big categories of charisms as a starting point for recognizing how the Holy Spirit is active in one's life and where He is inviting further participation in building the Church. She explores the diversity and unique expressions of each charism, emphasizing that discovering and naming one's charisms helps individuals value and invest in their God-given gifts, as well as the challenges of recognizing personal contributions in today's fragmented society and the significance of connecting with those gifts to experience a renewed sense of purpose. If you are interested in your charisms and furthing your discernment journey, you do not want to miss this episode! 00:56 — Introducing the Essential Question: What Are My Charisms? 01:19 — Understanding the Foundational Role of Charisms 02:14 — Diversity Within Charisms: More Than Meets the Eye 03:40 — How to Begin Discerning Your Charisms 05:01 — Rediscovering Purpose in a Fragmented Society 07:19 — Naming, Valuing, and Investing in Your Charisms 09:11 — Moving Forward: Applying Charisms Through Passion, Season, and Scope Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E183
June 25 · 23 min
Ep 183 - The Five Questions: What is my Identity?
In today's episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill emphasizes the importance of the foundational question of identity for Catholics, exploring why understanding one's identity is vital for living with purpose and peace. Jill explores how often people build their lives on unexamined assumptions about their identity, sourced from relationships, achievements, and struggles, as well as practical tools like the charism assessment and new resources, including the upcoming book "Mission Clarity," designed to help Catholics reflect on who they are in light of their faith. If you're interested in discussing the common challenges in forming a healthy sense of self, spiritual ways to diagnose identity gaps, and encouragement to allow God to heal and strengthen the foundation of identity before building one's mission, this episode is perfect for you! 02:35 — The Foundational Role of Identity 04:33 — Performative Good vs. True Identity 06:23 — The Charism Assessment Approach to Identity 07:32 — Three Organic Sources of Identity: Relationships, Achievements, Struggles 08:38 — Diagnosing Identity through Truth and Church Teaching 13:17 — Building a Seaworthy Foundation Before Mission 16:14 — Overcoming Identity Attachments: A Personal Story Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E177
June 18 · 13 min
Ep 182 - The Five Essential Questions
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, we focus on the five essential questions that guide the process of charism discernment for Catholics! We discuss how these questions move beyond simply identifying spiritual gifts to include deeper reflection on identity, passion, life season, and the unique mission God is calling each person to. A key theme in this episode is the importance of specificity in discerning not just what one's charisms are, but also how, where, and for whom those gifts are meant to be used. We also emphasize how addressing all five questions leads to greater clarity and helps prevent burnout by ensuring that service is compatible with one's current life circumstances! 01:16 — Seeking New Insights from God About Charisms 02:07 — The Five Essential Questions Unveiled 03:26 — Defining the Five Questions for Discernment 05:31 — Considering Season, Passion, and Scope in Discernment 07:20 — Deepening Clarity Beyond Initial Charism Discovery 10:01 — Applying Charism Discernment to Practical Life Scenarios Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E181
June 11 · 29 min
Ep 181 - All About Prophecy: Modes of Receiving Prophetic Words
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, jill focuses on the different ways Catholics can receive prophetic communication and how to discern whether a word is truly from the Holy Spirit! One concept discussed was the categorization of prophetic experiences into visions and locutions, each with three forms: corporeal, imaginative, and intellectual. Jill also discusses how God can use any of the senses to speak to people, the importance of not discounting unusual modes of reception like physical impressions or dreams, and the value of communal discernment when sharing prophetic words. A key theme from this episode is the "imperfect prophet principle"—emphasizing humility, accurate sharing of what is received, and careful interpretation—so that prophecy serves the body of Christ with clarity and charity. 00:28 — Introduction to Prophecy Part 2 01:27 — Modes of Prophetic Communication 03:36 — Three Types of Visions 09:05 — Three Types of Locutions 13:31 — Summary of Vision and Locution Modalities 14:41— The Role of Dreams and Sensory Impressions 21:23 — The Imperfect Prophet Principle and Discernment Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.
S3 · E180
June 4 · 20 min
Ep 180 - All About Prophecy: Kinds of Prophecy
In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill dives deep into the charism of prophecy, unpacking its different types and how they function within the Catholic tradition. Learn all about the distinctions between prophecy, words of knowledge, and words of wisdom, while also discovering why discernment is essential in understanding prophetic gifts. Drawing from Thomas Aquinas and practical ministry experience, this episode clarifies common confusions about prophecy and highlights how these gifts operate independently of personal holiness. Whether you're discerning your own charisms or eager to understand how God speaks through others, this episode offers clear insights and practical guidance! 00:35 – Introduction to the Charism of Prophecy 01:47 – Three Charisms Related to Prophecy 02:37 – Prophecy as an Umbrella Charism 04:57 – Words of Knowledge Explained 08:01 – Words of Wisdom and Their Distinction 14:30 – Aquinas' Teaching: Charisms and State of Grace 19:28 – Preview of Next Episode: Modes of Prophetic Communication Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

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